Tablets and other eBook readers

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There are a number of eBook readers from other manufacturer also available in the UK. Additionally, some tablet computers are marketed as eBook readers, or have a strong reading focus.

Sony eBook reader

Sony was one of the pioneers of eBook reading, but their interest seems to be lessening. Their new readers contain few novel features - for instance, they have no front-lit model. They have also stopped marketing their eBook products in the USA.

Their latest eBook reader is the PRS-T3. It has a 6 inch eInk touch screen with resolution 215 ppi, and weighs 158g. There is internal storage for around 1200 books, and an optional microSD card that can hold another 30,000. The battery will give 30 hours of reading time and take 2 hours to recharge.

The largest font size for book content is approximately 28 point.

Watch our Sony PRS-T1 video for low vision readers

Kindle Fire, Kobo Arc and Nook HD+

These three eBook readers are based on Android, but are so heavily customised that this may not be obvious. Although they are really tablet computers, and may allow you to install other apps - even eBook apps - they resemble dedicated eBook readers in that they have a native eBook reading function and are marketed heavily as eBook readers.

All three have a large text option that works for menus. In addition:

The Kobo Arc has no further accessibility - the TalkBack facility is present, but does not read Kobo books.

TalkBack works on the Nook HD and HD+, but it has been given a non-standard control menu which doesn't work very well. Also, the Explore by touch feature does not work, so it is not possible to use standard gestures to move around the screen.

Amazon is based on a later version of Android, and incorporates full screen magnification. They have replaced TalkBack with their own screen reader, substituting their IVONA voice and decreasing the number of rate options from nine to five. In other respects, they have allowed it to work as it should.

Reading choices from RNIB

We make it possible for you to get access to books, newspapers and magazines in the format you prefer, whether that’s braille, audio, large print or digital. You can borrow from our library service – the largest of its kind in the UK – or buy from our online shop.